Located just outside the heart of downtown Columbia, South Carolina, this property caught my attention on a day when I was actively seeking opportunities to lend a helping hand and restore neglected overgrown yards. It was in dire need of a complete transformation and clean up!
Nestled on a corner lot, the front of the property had years of fallen leaves, tightly compacted and full of thick thorny plants. Among the foliage, an assortment of sticks, bushes, and various debris added to the unkempt appearance. The garage, full of broken glass, leaves, and discarded trash, was similar to the front.
Venturing into the backyard, I discovered a miniature pine forest that had taken root and flourished, untouched by a mower for at least five years, if not more. The roof, burdened with a thick layer of leaves, seemed to have holes and missing shingles.
A letter from the city caught my eye. I attempted to contact the owner, but no such luck. Conversations with the neighboring residents revealed - the owner had moved years ago, leaving the property to fend for itself. They had relocated to another state, allowing it to fall into disrepair.
Disturbingly, the house had become a target for vandals, drawn by its abandoned state. Acts of vandalism and trespassing would happen at night. Squatters had also taken up residence, leaving behind evidence of their presence in the form of drug paraphernalia and discarded needles.
For three weeks, I worked for a couple hours each day. The gratitude expressed by the local community was overwhelming, with numerous individuals taking the time to express their heartfelt appreciation. Even representatives from the Homeowners Association stopped by, recognizing the positive impact our efforts were having on the neighborhood.
I succeeded in transforming this once-neglected space into a safer and cleaner environment. The ripple effect of my actions extended far beyond the boundaries of the property itself, impacting the entire neighborhood in a positive way. As we embrace the dawn of a new year, I am filled with a sense of optimism and anticipation. The year 2024 holds the promise of being our best yet, as we continue to make a difference, one restored property at a time. Happy New Year!
